Richards Bay rally to beat Orlando Pirates as Sundowns close on Chiefs

Richards Bay FC came from behind to beat defending champions Orlando Pirates 3-1 in the DStv Diski Challenge, handing the Buccaneers their third defeat of the season.

Orlando Pirates opened the scoring after 18 minutes when Siyabonga Ngwenya capitalised on poor defending. He rounded the goalkeeper before finishing into an unguarded net.

Richards Bay, known as the Natal Rich Boyz, levelled four minutes before half-time through Luyanda Mthembu.

The hosts completed the turnaround six minutes after the interval. Khayalethu Ndlangamandla collected a loose ball and struck into the far corner to put Richards Bay ahead.

Mpilwenhle Dlamini added a third goal in the 68th minute, securing Richards Bay’s first-ever victory over Orlando Pirates.

The result dealt another blow to the defending champions, while Richards Bay claimed a notable win in their meeting with the Buccaneers.

Sundowns move within two points of leaders

Mamelodi Sundowns strengthened their challenge for the title with a third consecutive DStv Diski Challenge victory, beating AmaZulu 3-0 on Saturday afternoon.

The Brazilians named Bennet Mokoena and Wandile Dube in their starting line-up, while several of their players were away on duty with the national under-23 team.

Mokoena made an immediate impact, giving Sundowns the lead from the penalty spot after only seven minutes.

He then turned provider in the 23rd minute, setting up Simphiwe Mlondo, who extended the advantage with a first-time finish.

Mlondo completed his brace in the 72nd minute, taking his total for the season to eight goals. That moved him level with Kaizer Chiefs striker Neo Bohloko at the top of the scoring charts.

Sundowns are now two points behind Kaizer Chiefs, who play on Sunday.

Elsewhere, Kruger United beat Siwelele FC 3-2, while Polokwane City recorded a 4-1 victory over Chippa United.

Marumo Gallants defeated TS Galaxy 1-0.